This Easy Watermelon Feta Basil Salad is a refreshing, vibrant dish that combines juicy watermelon, creamy feta, and fragrant basil, all drizzled with a sweet and tangy honey-lime dressing. Perfect for summer, this salad is light, flavorful, and sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a simple, refreshing side dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Refreshing and light – The juicy sweetness of watermelon and the creamy saltiness of feta create a perfect balance of flavors.
Easy and quick – With only a few ingredients, this salad comes together in just minutes.
Perfect for summer – This dish is as refreshing as it is delicious, making it ideal for hot days and barbecues.
Customizable – Feel free to adjust the sweetness, acidity, and herb flavor to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1000g cubed watermelon (approximately 1/4 medium watermelon)
1/3 cup chopped fresh basil
200g feta cheese (cubed or crumbled)
2 tbsp honey
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lime juice
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Directions

Prepare the ingredients: Start by cutting your watermelon and feta into bite-sized cubes. Chop the fresh basil finely. Fresh ingredients will bring the best flavor to this salad.
Toss the salad: In a large bowl, gently toss together the watermelon cubes, feta cheese, and chopped basil. Be careful not to break up the feta too much—keeping nice chunks will ensure each bite has a perfect balance of flavors.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, lime juice, and olive oil. This light dressing adds just the right amount of sweetness and tang to the salad.
Combine: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything to combine, ensuring all the pieces are lightly coated with the dressing.
Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or platter. Garnish with extra basil leaves for a touch of color and freshness.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4–6 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

Add a crunch: Throw in some toasted pine nuts, walnuts, or sunflower seeds for added texture.
Try mint: For a refreshing twist, replace the basil with fresh mint or add a mix of both herbs.
Spicy kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a few slices of jalapeño for a spicy contrast to the sweetness of the watermelon.
Add more fruit: Add other summer fruits like cucumber, berries, or cantaloupe for more variety.

Storage / Reheating

Storage: Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the watermelon may release some juice, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Reheating: This salad is meant to be served cold, so there is no need to reheat it. Simply enjoy it fresh from the fridge!

FAQs

Can I use crumbled feta instead of cubed?

Yes! Crumbled feta will work just fine, though cubed feta gives the salad a nice texture with more substantial bites.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the watermelon, feta, and basil ahead of time, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to avoid the watermelon getting soggy.

Can I make this salad without honey?

Yes, you can omit the honey for a more savory version of the salad. Alternatively, you can use maple syrup, agave nectar, or a sugar-free sweetener.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

If you don’t have feta, you can substitute with goat cheese, ricotta salata, or another soft, crumbly cheese. Just make sure the cheese you use has a nice salty flavor to balance the sweetness of the watermelon.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! You can add cucumber, red onion, or even bell peppers to make it heartier and add a little more crunch.

How do I serve this salad for a large crowd?

You can double or triple the ingredients depending on how many guests you’re serving. Just make sure to toss the salad in batches to prevent overcrowding.

Conclusion

This Easy Watermelon Feta Basil Salad is a perfect combination of sweet, savory, and refreshing flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick side dish, a light appetizer, or a healthy summer treat, this salad delivers every time. Simple to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s a dish that will brighten up any meal!